Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi!
I spotted a snake in a small flowing creek behind my house in South Tuscaloosa, Alabama today (West Central Alabama). It was next to the creek bank and then in some thin brush at the base of a Riverbirch tree. The snake was approximately 3 feet in length, had tan and black bands about 1-2 inches in width. I was unable to see the head of the snake. Because I am trying to become more educated about snakes to hopefully decrease my huge fear and to better protect my toddler, I am hoping that someone could help me identify this particular snake that is living in my back yard.
Are there only certain snakes that spend a significant amount of time in water? Does anyone know of a good book that I could purchase to identify snakes in our specific area?
Thanks so much for your help

It probably was a water snake (Nerodia species). Very common in the southeast and actually, anywhere they are found. You might try google.com and look up Alabama snakes and see if there is a identification guide for the state.
My Online Page (herp trips, lifelist, photography, etc)

Thanks a million for the information. I'll be sure to check out the site.
Have a great week!
Sonya

Its still hard to give a really good ID on a watersnake here in Alabama without seeing the head. Even then it still can be hard to tell. My first guess is this snake is some kind of Nerodia, most likely a Midland Watersnake. They are VERY common here. If you want, send me an email, I can send you some pictures of the watersnakes in Alabama.

Thanks again for the reply. Yes, I would love for you to forward pictures to me.
Thanks,
Sonya